In 1960, Gibson added a square-shoulder type to its lineup, which had primarily featured round-shoulder models like the J-45. The first model introduced was this Hummingbird.
While its shape resembles Martin's Dreadnought models, it features a notably wider body, approximately 16 inches (compared to the Martin D-28's 15 5/8 inches). It sports a large pickguard adorned with a hummingbird carving, complemented by pearl inlays and gold hardware for a striking design.

It also incorporates essential Gibson elements like a mahogany body and an adjustable saddle. Against the backdrop of recent vintage price surges, vintage flat-top models from Gibson, Martin, and others have become scarce. The launch of Advance Guitars brings vintage guitars together in one place. This time, we focus on 1960s models, including the first year of the Hummingbird, a gathering that will likely never happen again.

In 1960, this Hummingbird emerged as Gibson's first square-shoulder-shaped model.
Only 156 units were shipped in its first year. The following year saw a significant increase to 595 units. Its flamboyant appearance caught on with rock musicians, and by the third year, shipments ballooned to 1,364 units. This record alone shows just how rare the first year models are, making them legendary instruments that are virtually impossible to find now, over 60 years later. A defining characteristic of this first year is undoubtedly the Cherry Sunburst color.

Similar to the Les Paul Standard models manufactured from 1958 to 1960, known as "bursts," the sunburst colors from that era show varied fading patterns over time. This was achieved by applying a pigment-based yellow paint, a dye-based paint was applied to the rim to create a reddish hue. and that red tends to fade easily. This means each guitar develops its own unique character over time.

In 1960, the burst saw a change to a red-based paint, and many examples still retain a vivid red sunburst today. Regarding this Hummingbird, the redness on the rim has faded, resulting in a light brown hue. Overall, it has developed into what is often called a honey burst appearance. While individual variations exist, it's truly a miracle that it has achieved such a beautiful finish.

Released in 1960, the Hummingbird captivated musicians with its innovative looks and dynamic sound, garnering overwhelming support.

This explosive hit led to the introduction of the similarly square-shouldered Dove in '62. However, the Dove was priced 35% higher than the Hummingbird, so even after '62, popularity remained focused on the Hummingbird.There's an anecdote that Gibson, which was producing more Dove guitars than were actually selling, added Dove bodies to the Hummingbird line when production couldn't keep up. In '62 and '63, they even made Hummingbirds with maple bodies and long scales.

This guitar is precisely that maple-sided Hummingbird. It's in excellent condition and a premium piece.